By: Cameron Hammer
The best amateur skateboarding in the world, thrilling events, live music, and parties are just some of the exciting things that take place at the Tampa Am every year.
The best amateur skateboarders gathered from all around the globe to compete in the 29th Annual Tampa Am at the Skatepark of Tampa, 4215 E. Columbus Dr. Tampa, from Oct. 12 to Oct. 15, 2023.
This year Lazer Crawford took home first place, with Toa Sasaki winning second place, and Momohei Yabushita coming in third place.
Kento Urano won this year’s Independent Best Trick Contest with an inward heelflip to front tailslide kickflip out to fakie.
After 10 years of not having a vert ramp at the Skatepark of Tampa, The Tampa Am resurrected a Pro Vert Legends Jam on Friday the 13th. Professionals who participated in the vert demo included Tony Hawk, Mike McGill, and Bucky Lasek, and Bob Burnquist.
As skateboards, cash, and fireworks flew through the air, Jake Yanko was crowned as this year’s Bronson Speed Killer and Cariuma Concrete Jam winner.
With events all weekend, such as a moat race, free tattoos, an open bar, fireworks, and live music, everyone has something to look forward to at the Tampa Am.
The Tampa Am was created in 1995, with the goal of having a nationally recognized amateur skateboarding contest. Since then, people travel from all around the world to compete in this event that is now known as the Amateur National Championship.
Many of the best skateboarders have had their professional careers take off at the Tampa Am. Professionals who have won this contest in the past include: Donny Barley, Nyjah Huston, Felipe Gustavo, and Dashawn Jordan.
This event has become a rite of passage for amateur skateboarders to gain recognition and prove themselves on a global stage.
